If an article by Jehovah's Witnesses comes out acknowledging a particular subject as being a personal choice, just as long as this personal choice is not imposing or stumbling others... shouldn't others in the congregation respect this decision, especially when this decision has been left up to the individual?
2007-12-22 15:27:17 · 15 answers · asked by ezlayedback 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
It depends, always depends!
Check your surrounding, try to know your brothers and sisters better, so you could do the things for the glory of Jehovah. That means that you will contribute to the nice and easy development of the congregation... don't be a problem for them, be a refreshment.
In my congregation we have brothers and sisters from a lot of places of the world, we have no problem with their hair style, clothes, etc. But I was in another congregation before, and there the brothers and sisters were a lot more conservators, if one of my actual congregation sisters (with purple hair for example) attempt to assist to my old congregation, for sure that more than one of those brothers could have a heart attack.
Use your christian common sense, that's all.
A.
2007-12-22 16:19:34 · answer #1 · answered by Azazel (Advocatus Diaboli) 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
If a person makes a personal decision which does not go against bible principles then yes, brothers and sisters should respect their decision. However some things are 'hazy', if you or someone you know it being treated unfairly it's best to look deeply into the subject, circumstances AND environment (i.e. those around you who may be affected).
If, after that, you feel uneasy then you might be in trouble but if there aren't any reasons why people should disrespect your decision then you should be fine. If there's people not respecting your decision then just remind them that it is your choice. Hope all goes well!!
2007-12-26 10:33:23 · answer #2 · answered by jaspercat91 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If it is a decision left up to the individual's personal choice, then yes, the chose SHOULD be respected. The one problem sometimes is that Jehovah's organization is still made up of imperfect people and sometimes some few do make known their views on issues and do not really respect the views of others. While this is rear, it does happen and you just have to look past it or help them to see that it is your personal decision on this matter.
the main thing to remember is to continue to have love for the brothers and keep the unity within the congregation. (col3:14; 1co1:10)
2007-12-22 15:44:10 · answer #3 · answered by Mr_Dees_65 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Yes, you are correct. but also remember that people do have their own likes and dislikes. Sometimes in their efforts to be helpful that may voice their concerns. We can let them know in loving way that we respect their views and or concerns but that, we have made the choice that is best for us.
Never let the ideas of others stumble us in doing what is right in the eyes of Jehovah.
2007-12-25 21:12:30 · answer #4 · answered by Vivimos en los Ultimos Dias 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, as long as someone else does not find it offensive. Just because a matter may be left up to personal choice doesn't automatically mean others might not be bothered or upset by your choice.
2007-12-23 05:42:43 · answer #5 · answered by NMB 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Absolutely.
However, you're talking about imperfect humans. It's very hard not to judge. But if you took a different route, you may get that sort of reaction from someone else. You can't make everyone happy. You're not here to make everyone happy, either.
Whatever you choose, it's between you and Jehovah. Don't worry about them. Worry about HIM.
2007-12-24 15:29:34 · answer #6 · answered by barsh 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
You've answered your own question.
"Just as long as this personal choice is not imposing or stumbling others"
Take modesty, The definition of modesty is not what we think is modest, but what others think.
Remember the 2nd greatest commandment is "NOT LOVE OURSELVES",
but is love of OUR NEIGHBOR"
Why would we want to insist on doing something that disturbs our brothers and sisters?
Granted all in the congregation need to continue to grow in Love, and maturity
When Jesus died for us, it was a matter of choice.
He chose to obey Jehovah in all things, even to the point of death.
How silly it sounds, if a brother or sister in the congregation were to say:
"I am willing to die for you, but I won't change my hair cut for you."
"I am willing to give you my last piece of bread, but I won't change my sweater."
Remember just as you are forgiving and putting up will all the brothers and sisters, they are also putting up with you.
.
2007-12-23 00:59:08 · answer #7 · answered by TeeM 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Clearly, however, as one might realise, if you don't want people making judgement calls or being bothered by an action, don't publicize it.
Example, I have a show I like. Others might not like it. I see no reason to shove my liking said show in their face. Result, those who have a strong negative feeling about it don't have to worry about offending me, and vice versa.
2007-12-25 06:36:49 · answer #8 · answered by Ish Var Lan Salinger 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ideally yes, they should respect your decision. But, remember, JW's are a cult. They have so conditioned their rank and file members to the point that when they hear "personal decision" it means to them...you can do it if you want but the governing body really doesnt approve. I'll bet its usually the old timers who have a problem with whatever it is.....Then after you've made your choice and somebody is "stumbled" then you get disfellowshiped and shunned. Sorry if this offends anybody but, that's the way it works.
2007-12-22 20:02:33 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 4⤋
One sister told my 16 year old daughter not to wear red sweaters as they drew too much attention to herself..
she was outraged that she couldn't wear a bulky sweater over her blouse.
I told her if it stumbles that sister try not to wear it.
She didn't wear it to the hall again.
It was a matter of personal choice but if it upset someone..why do it?
2007-12-22 16:56:04 · answer #10 · answered by debbie2243 7 · 3⤊ 1⤋